The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Stanhope

There are over 90 family-friendly hiking trails around Stanhope, with 39 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from riverside strolls to gentle climbs with scenic views.

The family-friendly hikes around Stanhope generally feature gentle paths, riverside trails, and woodland tracks. You'll find routes that follow the River Wear, pass through pleasant denes, and explore areas with historical significance like old limestone quarries. The North Pennines AONB provides a mix of rolling hills and open moorlands, but the family-friendly options are curated to be manageable for all ages.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes around Stanhope are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Westgate and Slitt Wood loop is an easy 7 km circular path that follows the river and passes through historic woodland. Another option is the Rookhope & Rookhope Burn loop from the Arch, which is also an easy circular route.

Stanhope's family-friendly trails offer a chance to explore diverse natural features and historical landmarks. You might encounter picturesque river valleys, such as the Stanhope Dene, or discover remnants of the area's lead mining history in places like Slitt Wood. For a truly spectacular natural sight, consider visiting High Force Waterfall or Cauldron Snout Waterfall, which are within reach of the Stanhope area and offer impressive views.

Many of the trails in the Stanhope area are dog-friendly, making it a great place to hike with your canine companions. However, as Stanhope is within the North Pennines AONB, which includes agricultural land and moorland, it's important to keep dogs under close control, especially near livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.

Spring, summer, and early autumn are generally the best times for family hiking in Stanhope. During these seasons, the weather is milder, paths are usually drier, and the natural landscape is vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful seasonal colours. Always be prepared for changeable weather, as conditions in the North Pennines can shift quickly.

While many trails are family-friendly, routes specifically suitable for pushchairs or toddlers might be limited to very well-maintained paths or paved sections. The Stanhope Dene and Stanhope Park offer gentler, more accessible options. For specific routes, it's best to check individual trail descriptions for surface conditions to ensure they are suitable for pushchairs.

Parking is generally available in and around Stanhope, often near popular trailheads or in village car parks. Specific parking information for each route can usually be found in the detailed tour descriptions on komoot. It's advisable to check these details before you set off, especially during peak seasons, to plan your visit effectively.

Public transport options exist for reaching Stanhope and some nearby villages, which can serve as starting points for hikes. The Weardale Railway operates seasonally, and local bus services connect Stanhope to other towns in County Durham. For specific trailheads, you may need to combine public transport with a short walk or taxi ride. Always check current timetables and routes in advance.

The Stanhope area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths suitable for families, and the opportunity to combine nature exploration with historical insights. The tranquil riverside walks and the stunning views from gentle ascents are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects of hiking here.

For families with older children looking for a bit more of a challenge, there are moderate routes available. The Burnhope Reservoir and Cowshill loop from Wearhead is a moderate 8.8 km trail that offers attractive waterside walks and takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete. Another option is the Five Pikes and the Elephant Trees loop from White Kirkley, a longer 14.8 km moderate trail with moorland viewpoints.